Minn. finally adding dashcams to patrol cars

Star Tribune

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — A recent proposal from state Department of Public Safety Commissioner Michael Campion is a welcome start toward rebuilding public trust in Minnesota law enforcement -- something wounded this year by the shocking Metro Gang Strike Force meltdown and high-profile police brutality settlements and allegations.

Campion, with backing by Gov. Tim Pawlenty, wants to put video cameras in patrol cars around the state that are not yet equipped with the technology. The intent: to enhance police integrity and accountability by recording more officers' encounters with the public. About $2.5 million in federal highway money would help put so-called "dash cams" in an estimated 500 squad cars if the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration authorizes use of the funds for this, as it's expected to.